Sunday, January 19, 2014

About Modular Homes New York

By Marissa Velazquez


People thinking of building or buying a new home should educate themselves on the value of high-quality modular homes New York. There are many advantages to this alternative to building from the ground up on property, and the ability to get exactly what you want is just as great. These factory-built houses are entirely different from manufactured housing, so it pays to know the difference.

A modular unit is constructed in a factory and transported to its permanent site in sections. It comes from a manufacturer but is usually finished on site by a local contractor. Construction time is cut drastically, little time is lost because of inclement weather, and indoor materials used in construction are not exposed to the elements as they are in a site built home.

A site built home is constructed from the ground up on the property. The quality of materials and work are dependent on the contractor you choose and the sub-contractors, if any, who do the job. The design can be done by an architect or chosen from plans offered by the builder. There is usually a choice of standard features or up-grades that you may opt for. Construction can be delayed by rain, snow, or freezing temperatures. These homes generally appreciate in value over time.

Manufactured units are different from both of these types of house. A manufactured home is made entirely in the factory on a metal chassis and shipped to the site in one or more complete units which can be joined together. Unlike the other two types of housing, these manufactured homes are not usually placed on permanent foundations. They often lose value over the years.

Another important difference is that manufactured housing conforms to HUD (federal government) code. A stick built or a modular home is built to local and state code and approved by local building inspectors. Not all locales allow manufactured homes. Exceptions that are granted for modulars are not open to manufactured units. It's important to know what qualifies in your area of New York before proceeding with plans to build a new home.

Financing and insurance may differ for these types of home, as well. Many insurance providers do not work with manufactured home owners, since the units are not on permanent foundations. Lenders often treat manufactured housing as personal property rather than real estate. When buying an existing home, get a written statement from the seller or the listing agent as to the exact nature of the house you are considering.

The construction costs for modulars are very competitive. Modulars can be customized - to increase energy efficiency, for instance, which is important in upstate New York. Upgrades are offered for all features of standard designs, and an architect can use sections to achieve almost any custom effect. Check online photo galleries to see beautiful kitchens, luxurious bathrooms, and pleasant living rooms.

Modular homes New York can be as sturdy, beautiful, and unique as any site built home, and they will be as good an investment. Check out the local code requirements and any development restrictions before you proceed with planning.




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